Overview A masterfully crafted two-piece Japanese art collection comprising an intricate openwork wall vessel and a high-relief dragon belt buckle. Bearing the prized maker's mark of the famed Konoike silversmith workshop, this matching ensemble balances delicate floral openwork with powerful mythical imagery. Ideal for curated Japandi, Wabi-Sabi, or Maximalist interiors, these pieces serve as magnificent wall-mounted display accents, vanity catchalls, or framed textile accessories.
Cultural & Artistic Background Stamped on the vessel base with the Konoike workshop signature (鴻池造) alongside silver fineness hallmarks, this set represents the pinnacle of East Asian metalworking craft. The wall vessel utilizes the sukashibori (pierced openwork) technique, forming a dense garden of blooming chrysanthemums (kiku), long revered as symbols of longevity and nobility. The accompanying shield-shaped buckle depicts a ferocious relief-carved celestial dragon (ryu) emerging through dense swirling clouds, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and protection.
Condition & Surface Character • Excellent structural integrity with all intricate cutouts intact and sturdy metal walls. • Rich, authentic antique dark patina highlights the high-relief repoussé detailing. • Reverse mounting bar on the dragon plaque and integrated sunburst wall-hanging bracket on the vessel remain fully functional. • Maker's mark and silver metal purity stamps clearly stamped and legible on the rear vessel wall.
Dimensions & Weight • Height: 4.0 inches (Vessel) | 3.2 inches (Buckle) • Width/Diameter: 3.5 inches (Vessel) | 2.5 inches (Buckle) • Depth: 1.5 inches (Vessel) | 0.5 inches (Buckle)